The large northeast Clare village of Whitegate is a popular location for water sports enthusiasts, walkers, anglers and boaters, thanks to its location at the heart of the Lough Derg Blueway and in the Lough Derg Region of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Whitegate is one of nine trailheads along the East Clare Way, a 172km multi-day looped walking route through the Slieve Aughty Mountains and along the banks of the River Shannon and Lough Derg. The village also is the starting point for shorter, looped walks and the nearby Dromaan and Williamstown harbours provide picturesque locations for those looking to do a bit of fishing, enjoy a swim or take to the water in a kayak or boat.
Nestled nearby in the foothills of the Slieve Aughty Mountains is An Sibin Riding Centre which caters for guided horseback riding through the rugged beauty of the Clare countryside with tours to castles, monastic ruins and ancient Celtic tombs.
After a day on the mountain trails or out on the waters of Lough Derg and the River Shannon, The Half Barrell is the place to go. Grab a seat, inside or out, and order a home-cooked meal before enjoying one of the regular traditional music sessions that take place in the family-run pub.
